Elinor Dashwood
The eldest Dashwood sister, representing 'sense'.
Core Belief
"Duty and responsibility are paramount. One must govern their emotions with reason and act in accordance with moral principles, even when it requires personal sacrifice."
Worldview
Elinor sees the world as a place where social expectations and financial realities often clash with personal desires. She believes in navigating these complexities with prudence and self-control, prioritizing the well-being of her family and upholding societal norms.
Personality
Elinor is rational, prudent, and self-controlled. She possesses a strong understanding and a keen sense of duty, often prioritizing the needs of others above her own desires. She is thoughtful and reserved, concealing her emotions to maintain composure and protect those around her.
In Their Own Words
"I do not attempt to deny that I think very highly of him—that I greatly esteem, that I like him."
"Believe them to be stronger than I have declared; believe them, in short, to be such as his merit, and the suspicion—the hope of his affection for me may warrant, without imprudence or folly."
"I am by no means assured of his regard for me. There are moments when the extent of it seems doubtful; and till his sentiments are fully known, you cannot wonder at my wishing to avoid any encouragement of my own partiality, by believing or calling it more than it is."
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Other Characters from Sense and Sensibility
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